Woodland Pool

The pool itself is deceptively modest - a body of water ringed by mature woodland that feels far removed from Leicester despite being barely on the city's doorstep. You're there for the wildlife, really. Dragonflies, newts, water birds. Walk the perimeter and you'll clock why locals bother: it's a proper working nature reserve, not just a pretty pond.

The paths are well-maintained but can get boggy depending on the season. Bring decent shoes. You won't need more than an hour unless you're serious about birdwatching, in which case bring binoculars and plan for two. Best visited in spring when everything's nesting and the insect life goes mad.

It works nicely as a morning visit if you're staying at Emily's Cut Camping or Hidden Hideaway Glamping - both within striking distance. Neither location is so remote that you can't nip into Leicester for lunch, but the reserve itself is the sort of place that reminds you why you came to the East Midlands rather than the coast. Families with younger kids might find it a bit low-key; it's really the kind of spot that appeals to the kind of person who keeps a nature journal.

Free to visit, as far as anyone can tell. Parking's informal. Go midweek if you can - weekends bring dog walkers and the occasional birdwatcher who gets territorial about the good spots.